Zagreb Residents Slam Public Transport Over Lack of Air Conditioning Amid Heatwave
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Zagreb residents are complaining about inadequate air conditioning on public transport during a heatwave.
- Passengers report that trams are hotter than the outside temperature, with some older models lacking air conditioning entirely.
- Commuters express frustration with the public transport company, ZET, for not activating air conditioning systems even when available.
As Zagreb swelters under a significant heatwave, frustration is mounting among residents regarding the inadequate cooling systems on public transport. Passengers are voicing strong complaints about the lack of effective air conditioning in trams, with some reporting that the interior temperature is higher than the outside heat.
It's hotter in the tram than outside, most passengers got off after one stop.
One Reddit user described their experience on tram lines 5 and 8, noting that despite the external temperature nearing 35 degrees Celsius, the trams offered no relief. They observed that new Konฤar trams, which should be equipped with air conditioning, were not providing any cooling. The user expressed disbelief that the systems were not being activated, questioning the logic behind leaving passengers to suffer in extreme heat while drivers presumably have climate-controlled cabins.
What's the logic? People are collapsing outside due to abnormal heat, and you can't even be bothered to turn on the air conditioning in the tram? It's important that the ZET driver is cool in his cabin.
Adding to the discomfort, some older tram models, like the Czech-made Tatra KT4, are reportedly still in service on certain lines, lacking air conditioning altogether. One commuter suggested that those responsible for operating these non-air-conditioned trams during record heat should face consequences for endangering public health. The sentiment among many is that the public transport company, ZET, is failing to address a basic comfort and safety issue during extreme weather conditions.
In the new tram, it's five degrees hotter than outside: truly excellent air conditioning, no doubt.
Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.